I like my beer. What are the rules in Russia regarding drinking?

You must be at least 18 years old to purchase any kind of alcohol in Russia, so be prepared to be asked for your passport at check-out counters and even in restaurants if you’re buying alcohol. (Trust us: even if you’re well in your thirties you’re not safe.) Drinking in public is not allowed and punishable by fines and, for foreigners, even deportation. Drinking from a bottle that is inside a paper bag will not save you from the wrath of the police. Neither will re-pouring alcohol into water bottles or other containers. Being drunk in public is also punishable by a fine or up to 15 days in prison. There is likely to be additional scrutiny in and around the stadiums: Bringing your own alcohol into official venues on match days is strictly prohibited. These are the official rules but it’s possible the authorities could turn a blind eye. Nevertheless, beware you’ll attract the attention of the police — which you want to avoid to begin with.